Police in Surat’s Ichhapore area have arrested a 31-year-old mechanic after a video he recorded during a domestic incident was found to be a critical factor in the investigation into his wife’s death.
The accused, Ranjit Sah, had claimed the footage would establish that he was not responsible for the incident. However, investigators told media persons that the recording instead raised serious questions about his conduct at the time and ultimately strengthened the case against him.
The woman, identified as Pratima Devi (31), suffered extensive burn injuries at her residence on January 4. She was taken to hospital, where she remained under treatment for several days before dying on January 11, police said.
According to investigators, Pratima had been facing ongoing marital stress linked to frequent household disputes. Police said tensions in the family escalated on the day of the incident following an argument over the couple’s children allegedly damaging wheat laid out by a neighbour to dry on a terrace.
The dispute reportedly intensified when the children were reprimanded and prevented from going out or attending school. When Pratima objected, a heated exchange followed. During the argument, Sah allegedly made remarks referring to fuel stored inside the house. Soon after, Pratima sustained burn injuries.
Instead of attempting to stop the incident, Sah allegedly began filming the scene on his mobile phone. “The accused believed the video would work in his favour, but it became an important piece of evidence during the probe,” Ichhapore police inspector A C Gohil told media persons.
Sah was taken into custody on Thursday and booked for abetment to suicide following a detailed investigation, police said.
Police also traced the couple’s background, stating that Sah, a native of Bihar, had met Pratima through extended family connections. They married through court procedures in 2013 and later moved to Surat. The couple had three children and had been living in Ichhapore for several years.
While Sah worked as a mechanic, Pratima managed the household. Investigators noted that diesel was available at the residence due to Sah’s occupation and was also used by the family for certain household purposes.
Police said further investigation in the case is ongoing.
Also Read: NRI University Student Dies By Suicide In Surat https://www.vibesofindia.com/nri-university-student-dies-by-suicide-in-surat/
